10 Best Herbal Tinctures For Colds

Herbal tinctures for colds are concentrated liquid extracts made from herbs, roots, and flowers that have natural anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and antibacterial properties.

These tinctures help to alleviate symptoms of colds such as congestion, coughing, and sore throats by soothing the respiratory tract and boosting immunity. Examples of herbal tinctures that are effective against colds include Echinacea, Goldenseal, and Slippery Elm.

By taking these tinctures, people can reduce their reliance on over-the-counter medications and experience improved sleep quality, increased energy levels, and a faster recovery from illness, ultimately improving their overall well-being.

The following article describes in detail the most important tinctures for colds, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.

1. Echinacea purpurea

Purple coneflower tinctures helps with colds because of its potent antiviral properties, specifically targeting the common cold-causing viruses.

The herb's flavonoids and phenolic acids have been shown to inhibit viral replication, reducing the severity and duration of symptoms such as congestion, coughing, and fatigue.

Additionally, purple coneflower has anti-inflammatory properties that can help alleviate sinus pressure and ease a sore throat, making it an effective natural remedy for combating colds.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Echinacea purpurea tinctures that help with colds.

• Alkylamides: These compounds help stimulate the immune system, which plays a crucial role in fighting off cold viruses and reducing the severity of symptoms.
• Cichoric acid: Cichoric acid has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce the severity of cold symptoms such as congestion, sore throats, and coughs.
• Isoaparagusic acid: This compound has been shown to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, which can help alleviate cold symptoms and reduce the duration of illness.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of purple coneflower used to make tinctures for colds.

• Roots: The roots are the most commonly used part due to their high concentration of echinacosides, which are believed to boost the immune system and reduce inflammation.
• Leaves: The leaves contain flavonoids and alkylamides, which are thought to have antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties, helping to alleviate cold symptoms.
• Flowers: The flowers contain isobutylamides and other compounds that are believed to have immunomodulatory effects, which may help to reduce the severity and duration of colds.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic purple coneflower for colds.

1. Harvest 1 part echinacea purpurea roots and flowers at the peak of flowering in the morning.
2. Clean and dry the plant material in a warm oven at 150 degrees fahrenheit for 2 hours.
3. Combine 1 part plant material with 2 parts 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
4. Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks shaking daily.
5. Strain the tincture through a cheesecloth and transfer it to a dark glass bottle.

2. Andrographis paniculata

King of bitters tinctures helps with colds because its unique blend of herbs, including ginger, garlic, and gentian root, provides a triple threat against symptoms.

The warming properties of ginger help to ease congestion and soothe a sore throat, while the antibacterial properties of garlic work to combat the underlying infection. Meanwhile, gentian root's bitter taste stimulates digestion and helps to release mucus, allowing for a more efficient clearance of pathogens from the body.

This powerful combination helps to reduce the severity and duration of cold symptoms.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Andrographis paniculata tinctures that help with colds.

• Andrographolide: Acts as a potent anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory agent, helping to alleviate symptoms of colds such as fever, headache, and body aches.
• Andrographolide glucoside: Exhibits antimicrobial properties, which aid in reducing the severity and duration of colds by inhibiting the growth of pathogens responsible for the infection.
• N-butylphthalide: Demonstrates bronchodilatory and anti-inflammatory effects, helping to relieve respiratory congestion and cough associated with colds.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of king of bitters used to make tinctures for colds.

• Leaves: The leaves are the most commonly used part due to their high content of andrographolide, a compound responsible for the plant's medicinal properties.
• Stems: The stems are also used to make tinctures due to their high concentration of andrographolide and other bioactive compounds that aid in cold and flu relief.
• Roots: The roots of Andrographis paniculata are sometimes used to make tinctures, although less frequently than the leaves and stems, as they contain lower levels of andrographolide and other essential compounds.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic king of bitters for colds.

1. Harvest fresh andrographis paniculata leaves and flowers from the plant at the peak of flowering for optimal potency.
2. Clean and dry the harvested plant material using paper towels or a clean cloth to remove excess moisture.
3. Chop the dried plant material into small pieces to increase the surface area for infusion using a sharp knife.
4. Steep one part of the chopped plant material in two parts of 80-proof vodka for 2 weeks in a glass jar with a lid.
5. Strain the liquid mixture using a coffee filter or cheesecloth to separate the plant material from the tincture.

3. Echinacea angustifolia

Kansas coneflower tinctures helps with colds because its active compounds, such as echinacea and kaempferol, possess potent antimicrobial properties that effectively combat viral infections.

The tincture's anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting effects also help to reduce symptoms like congestion, fever, and body aches.

Additionally, the herb's ability to modulate the immune response can shorten the duration of illness, making it an effective natural remedy for alleviating cold symptoms.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Echinacea angustifolia tinctures that help with colds.

• Iridoid glycosides: These compounds help stimulate the immune system, which in turn aids in fighting off viral infections that cause colds.
• Alkylamides: Alkylamides have anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce the severity of cold symptoms such as congestion and sore throats.
• Phenylethanoids: Phenylethanoids have antimicrobial properties that help combat the underlying infections that cause colds, thereby reducing their duration and severity.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of kansas coneflower used to make tinctures for colds.

• Roots: Rich in active compounds like echinacosides, alkylamides, and phenolic acids, which contribute to its immune-boosting and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Leaves: Used for their antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help alleviate symptoms associated with colds and respiratory infections.
• Stems: Rich in phenolic acids, which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that can help combat cold symptoms and support overall health.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic kansas coneflower for colds.

1. Harvest fresh echinacea angustifolia roots in late summer or early fall when they are fully matured.
2. Clean and dry the harvested roots in a low-temperature oven at 150 degrees fahrenheit for 2 hours.
3. Chop the dried roots into small pieces and combine 1 part roots with 2 parts vodka in a clean glass jar.
4. Store the jar in a cool dark place and let it steep for 2 to 6 weeks, shaking daily.
5. Strain the liquid through a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle, discard the solids and label the tincture.

4. Ginkgo biloba

Maidenhair tree tinctures helps with colds because of its impressive antimicrobial properties, which combat the underlying infections that cause symptoms.

The tannins present in the plant have been shown to reduce inflammation and congestion, providing relief from a sore throat and stuffy nose. Additionally, maidenhair tree's expectorant properties help loosen mucus, making it easier to expel, thereby alleviating coughs and sinus pressure.

Overall, using maidenhair tree tinctures as part of your cold-fighting regimen can provide significant symptom relief and support a faster recovery.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Ginkgo biloba tinctures that help with colds.

• Flavonoids: These plant-based compounds have potent antioxidant properties that can help reduce inflammation in the body, alleviating cold symptoms like congestion and coughing.
• Terpenoids: Specifically, Ginkgo biloba terpenoids like bilobalide have anti-inflammatory and anti-viral properties, which can help combat the underlying viral infections that cause colds and reduce the severity of symptoms.
• Bilobin: This flavonoid glycoside has been shown to have mucolytic and expectorant properties, helping to break down mucus and promote its expulsion from the body, relieving congestion and coughing associated with colds.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of maidenhair tree used to make tinctures for colds.

• Leaves: The leaves of Ginkgo biloba are the most commonly used part in tinctures for colds due to their high concentration of flavonoids and terpenoids, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
• Seeds: Ginkgo biloba seeds are also used in tinctures for colds because they contain a compound called bilobalide, which has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties.
• Roots: The roots of Ginkgo biloba are used in tinctures for colds due to their high content of flavonoids and terpenoids, which can help to boost the immune system and reduce inflammation.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic maidenhair tree for colds.

1. Harvest ginkgo biloba leaves at the end of summer or beginning of fall for optimal potency.
2. Dry the leaves in a low-temperature oven at 150 degrees fahrenheit for 2 hours.
3. Combine 1 part ginkgo biloba leaves with 2 parts vodka in a clean glass jar.
4. Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks, shaking the jar daily.
5. Strain the tincture through a cheesecloth and discard the solids, transferring the liquid to a clean glass bottle.

5. Sambucus nigra

Elder tinctures helps with colds because of its unique combination of bioactive compounds, including flavonoids, terpenes, and saponins.

These potent phytonutrients have been shown to exhibit antiviral properties, helping to combat the viral agents responsible for causing cold symptoms.

Additionally, elder tincture's expectorant properties can help loosen mucus, making it easier to expel, while its anti-inflammatory compounds can reduce congestion and discomfort associated with a cold.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Sambucus nigra tinctures that help with colds.

• Flavonoids: These plant compounds help alleviate cold symptoms by reducing inflammation, improving the immune response, and exerting antioxidant effects to combat viral replication.
• Phenolic acids: These compounds possess antimicrobial properties, which help combat the growth of pathogenic microorganisms responsible for colds, while also exhibiting anti-inflammatory and immune-modulating activities.
• Isothiocyanates: These sulfur-containing compounds found in Sambucus nigra help combat viral infections by inhibiting viral replication and exerting antimicrobial effects, thus contributing to the alleviation of cold symptoms.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of elder used to make tinctures for colds.

• Flowers: They are rich in antiviral properties and flavonoids, which help to combat cold and flu symptoms.
• Stems: They contain bioactive compounds that aid in reducing fever and relieving congestion.
• Fruits: They are a good source of vitamin C and other antioxidants that help to boost the immune system and fight off infections.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic elder for colds.

1. Harvest sambucus nigra flowers and leaves in full bloom using clean scissors to avoid contamination.
2. Clean the sambucus nigra material by gently shaking off dirt and debris.
3. Combine 250g of sambucus nigra flowers and leaves with 500ml of 45% ethanol in a clean glass jar.
4. Store the mixture in a cool dark place for 2-3 weeks with occasional gentle shaking.
5. Strain the liquid through cheesecloth and discard the solids to obtain the sambucus nigra tincture.

6. Thymus serpyllum

Creeping thyme tinctures helps with colds because of its natural antiviral and decongestant properties.

The herb's essential oils, such as thymol and carvacrol, have been shown to inhibit the growth of viral cells, reducing the severity and duration of symptoms. Additionally, creeping thyme's expectorant properties help to loosen mucus, making it easier to expel, providing relief from congestion and coughing.

By incorporating creeping thyme tinctures into your natural cold remedy routine, you can potentially alleviate symptoms and support a faster recovery.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Thymus serpyllum tinctures that help with colds.

• Thymol: Thymol, a phenolic compound, helps with colds by exhibiting antimicrobial properties that inhibit the growth of pathogenic microorganisms, thus reducing the severity and duration of respiratory infections.
• Carvacrol: Carvacrol, a monoterpenic phenol, aids in relieving cold symptoms by displaying anti-inflammatory and expectorant properties, which help reduce congestion and ease coughing.
• Rosmarinic acid: Rosmarinic acid, a phenolic diterpenoid, assists in alleviating cold symptoms by exhibiting antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the respiratory system.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of creeping thyme used to make tinctures for colds.

• Leaves: They are used for their antiviral and antibacterial properties, which help combat cold and flu symptoms.
• Flowers: They contain thymol, a compound that acts as an expectorant, helping to relieve congestion and coughs associated with colds.
• Stems: They contain thymol and other bioactive compounds that aid in reducing inflammation and fighting off infections that cause colds.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic creeping thyme for colds.

1. Harvest thymus serpyllum flowers and leaves in the morning after the dew has evaporated but before the heat intensifies.
2. Clean and dry thymus serpyllum flowers and leaves in a low-temperature oven for 2 hours at 100°f.
3. Combine 1 part of dried thymus serpyllum flowers and leaves with 2 parts of 80% ethanol in a glass jar.
4. Steep the mixture for 2 weeks in a cool dark place shaking the jar every 2 days.
5. Strain and filter the mixture through cheesecloth into a clean glass bottle and store in a cool dark place.

7. Echinacea pallida

Pale coneflower tinctures helps with colds because of its impressive antimicrobial properties, which allow it to combat the viruses and bacteria that cause respiratory infections.

The herb's active compounds, such as triterpenoids and flavonoids, have been shown to inhibit the growth of various pathogens, reducing the severity and duration of cold symptoms like congestion, coughing, and sore throats.

Additionally, pale coneflower has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help alleviate sinus pressure and reduce the discomfort associated with a cold.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Echinacea pallida tinctures that help with colds.

• Iridoide glycosides: These compounds exhibit immunomodulatory effects, which help stimulate the immune system to fight off invading pathogens and reduce the severity of cold symptoms.
• Caffeic acid derivatives: These phenolic compounds have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation associated with colds, thereby alleviating symptoms such as congestion and fever.
• Polysaccharides: These complex carbohydrates have immunostimulatory effects, which help activate immune cells and enhance their ability to recognize and eliminate pathogens, ultimately reducing the duration and severity of colds.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of pale coneflower used to make tinctures for colds.

• Roots: Echinacea pallida roots are rich in compounds that help stimulate the immune system and reduce inflammation.
• Leaves: Echinacea pallida leaves contain various bioactive compounds that contribute to their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, making them useful for cold treatment.
• Flowers: Echinacea pallida flowers are used for their antimicrobial properties, which help combat infections and alleviate cold symptoms.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic pale coneflower for colds.

1. Harvest echinacea pallida roots and flowers in late summer when they are in full bloom.
2. Clean and dry the harvested roots and flowers to prevent contamination and spoilage.
3. Chop the dried roots and flowers into small pieces to increase their surface area.
4. Steep the chopped roots and flowers in a neutral solvent such as glycerin or ethanol.
5. Filter and bottle the resulting tincture to remove any sediment and preserve its potency.

8. Hydrastis canadensis

Goldenseal tinctures helps with colds because it contains berberine, a potent antiviral compound that targets the rhinovirus, which causes most colds.

When taken at the onset of symptoms, goldenseal tincture can help reduce congestion, coughing, and sore throats by inhibiting the replication of the virus in the body. Its antibacterial properties also help combat secondary infections that often accompany colds, such as sinusitis and bronchitis.

As a natural remedy, goldenseal tincture offers a gentle yet effective way to alleviate cold symptoms without resorting to harsh medications.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Hydrastis canadensis tinctures that help with colds.

• Alkaloids: Berberine in Hydrastis canadensis tinctures has antimicrobial properties, which help combat the underlying bacterial or viral infections causing the cold.
• Isoquinoline alkaloids: Berberastine has been found to exhibit antiviral activity, which aids in reducing the severity and duration of cold symptoms.
• Phenolic acids: Gallic acid in Hydrastis canadensis tinctures has anti-inflammatory properties, which help alleviate the congestion, sore throat, and other discomforts associated with colds.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of goldenseal used to make tinctures for colds.

• Roots: The roots are the primary part used for making tinctures, as they contain the highest concentration of hydrastine and berberine, which are the active compounds responsible for the plant's medicinal properties.
• Leaves: The leaves are also used to make tinctures, as they contain some hydrastine and berberine, although in smaller quantities compared to the roots.
• Stems: The stems are another part used for making tinctures, containing some hydrastine and berberine, although in even smaller quantities compared to the roots and leaves.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic goldenseal for colds.

1. Gather 1 part dried hydrastis canadensis root in a clean glass jar and cover with 2 parts 80 proof vodka.
2. Steep the mixture for 2 weeks in a cool dark place away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
3. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass container discarding the solids.
4. Transfer the liquid to small glass dropper bottles and store them in a cool dark place for at least 4 weeks.
5. Label the tinctures with the date and ingredients and store them in a cool dark place for up to 2 years.

9. Glycyrrhiza glabra

Licorice tinctures helps with colds because of its natural anti-inflammatory properties, which can soothe a sore throat and reduce congestion.

The glycyrrhizin present in licorice root has been shown to inhibit the production of mucus, helping to break down phlegm and make it easier to expel.

Additionally, licorice tinctures have antiviral properties that can help combat the underlying infection, reducing the severity and duration of cold symptoms.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Glycyrrhiza glabra tinctures that help with colds.

• Saponins: Saponins have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help alleviate congestion and cough associated with colds by reducing swelling in the respiratory tract.
• Glycyrrhizin: Glycyrrhizin has antiviral properties, which can help combat the underlying viral infection causing the cold by inhibiting the replication of certain viruses.
• Licoricidin: Licoricidin has immunomodulatory effects, which can help regulate the immune response and reduce the severity of cold symptoms by enhancing the body's natural defense mechanisms.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of licorice used to make tinctures for colds.

• Roots: The roots of Glycyrrhiza glabra are commonly used to make tinctures for colds due to their high content of glycyrrhizin, which has anti-inflammatory properties.
• Leaves: The leaves of Glycyrrhiza glabra are used to make tinctures for colds due to their antioxidant and antimicrobial properties, which help to soothe and protect the respiratory tract.
• Flowers: The flowers of Glycyrrhiza glabra are used to make tinctures for colds due to their expectorant properties, which help to loosen and clear mucus from the lungs and airways.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic licorice for colds.

1. Harvest 50 grams of dried glycyrrhiza glabra root in a clean and dry environment.
2. Chop the root into small pieces using a sharp knife to increase surface area.
3. Combine the chopped root with 250 milliliters of 70% ethanol in a clean glass jar.
4. Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 weeks with occasional shaking.
5. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth into a clean glass container and discard solids.

10. Taraxacum officinale

Dandelion tinctures helps with colds because it possesses anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that help to combat the underlying causes of congestion and discomfort.

The tincture's bitter compounds stimulate digestion and relieve mucus buildup, reducing coughing and sinus pressure.

Additionally, dandelion's natural expectorant properties help to loosen and clear out excess mucus, making it easier to breathe and expel toxins from the body, ultimately aiding in a faster recovery from the common cold.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Taraxacum officinale tinctures that help with colds.

• Inulin: Inulin, a type of fructan, helps to boost the immune system and reduce inflammation, making it more effective in fighting off cold viruses.
• Taraxasterol: Taraxasterol, a triterpene saponin, has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties, which can help alleviate cold symptoms such as congestion and sore throats.
• Caffeic acid: Caffeic acid, a phenolic compound, exhibits antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to reduce oxidative stress and alleviate symptoms associated with the common cold.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of dandelion used to make tinctures for colds.

• Leaves: They contain a high concentration of bioactive compounds, making them a popular choice for tinctures.
• Flowers: Rich in flavonoids and saponins, they help to reduce inflammation and relieve respiratory issues associated with colds.
• Roots: The roots of Taraxacum officinale contain inulin, which has anti-inflammatory properties and can help to soothe coughs and congestion.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic dandelion for colds.

1. Harvest 1 part of taraxacum officinale roots and leaves in the morning after the dew has dried.
2. Chop the harvested taraxacum officinale into small pieces using a sharp knife for better extraction.
3. Combine the chopped taraxacum officinale with 2 parts of 80% ethanol in a glass container.
4. Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2-6 weeks to allow for optimal extraction.
5. Filter the resulting liquid through a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle for storage.

What is the best combination of herbal tinctures to use for colds?

The best combination of herbal tinctures that help with colds is Echinacea, elderberry, and ginger.

Echinacea enhances the immune system, while elderberry's anthocyanins combat viral infections. Ginger's anti-inflammatory properties soothe a sore throat and reduce congestion.

Combining these tinctures may help alleviate cold symptoms. However, it's essential to consult with a healthcare professional before using herbal remedies, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking medications.

A general dosage is 20-30 drops of each tincture, taken 2-3 times a day.

What ailments similar to colds are treated with herbal tinctures?

Ailments similar to colds/tinctures.html">colds/tinctures.html">colds that are treated with herbal tinctures are sinusitis, bronchitis, and allergies.

Tinctures made from herbs such as goldenseal, echinacea, and garlic have anti-inflammatory properties that help alleviate congestion and respiratory issues. Additionally, tinctures of nettle and quercetin have been used to reduce allergy symptoms like itching, sneezing, and runny nose.

These herbal remedies can provide natural relief for various upper respiratory tract infections and allergies without the side effects associated with over-the-counter medications.